Pipeline Size

Calculation in
Process
Engineering
SWIPE

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Introduction
Fluid Transport Precision
Sizing pipelines is the bedrock of fluid
transport system design.

Key to Efficiency
The diameter of a pipeline directly
influences system efficiency and
performance.

Balancing Act
Achieving the right pipeline size involves
the art and science of process engineering.

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Key Design Parameters
Fluid Properties Insight
To size pipelines accurately, understanding
fluid properties like viscosity, density, and
temperature is essential.

Material and Diameter Selection

These properties influence the choice of
pipeline material and diameter.

Optimizing Flow
Fluid property knowledge ensures optimal
flow in the transport system.

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The Pressure Drop
Dilemma
Pressure drop is a pivotal concern.
Utilize the Darcy-Weisbach
equation to calculate pressure
drops, factoring in friction and
other elements.

∆P = 4⋅f⋅L⋅ρ⋅V² ⁄ 2⋅D
Where: ΔP is Pressure Drop, f is Darcy-Weisbach friction
factor, L is Length, ρ is Density, V is Velocity, D is
Diameter of the pipeline

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The Science of
Diameter Sizing
Determining the correct pipe
diameter requires the Colebrook-
White equation, considering the
Darcy friction factor and other
parameters.

1/√f = −2log ( ε ⁄ 3.7D +

2.51 ⁄ Re √f )
Where: ε is Roughness of the pipe, Re is Reynolds
Number, D is Diameter of the pipeline

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Safe, Scalable, and
Cost-Effective
Safe
Proper pipeline sizing ensures that the
system can handle the fluid without safety
concerns, preventing issues like excessive
pressure or velocity.
Scalable
A well-designed pipeline allows for future
process expansions, accommodating
increased flow rates as needed.
Cost-Effective
Finding the right balance between
oversized and undersized pipelines is key to
managing both capital and operational
costs effectively.

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